The documentary “13th” is an award-winning example of “infotainment.” Most critics heralded it for bringing the issue of racialized mass incarceration to a wider public. However, some say it presents a misleading narrative of the causes of mass incarceration. After watching “13th”, examine three specific ways the film helped you understand the rise of mass incarceration. 1. 2. 3. What aspects of the rise of mass incarceration does the film leave out or fail to adequately explore? Cite two aspects and cite two different previous readings from the course. 4. 5. 6. Some critics argue the final scenes of the film should not have been included. They argue that the videos dehumanize the victims and create a "national spectacle of black death." Do you agree? Why or why not? Cite the film in your response 7-8. Ava DuVernay, the director of “13th”, is also the inspiration for the “DuVernay test.” This test measures whether a film portrays “fully realized” African Americans and other minorities who have their own motivations, desires, and actions that are not simply shaped and informed by white people. Ironically, critics of “13th” argue DuVernay’s film failed the DuVernay test. What do you think? Does the film pass the DuVernay test? Answer using multiple specific examples from the film. 9. The film focuses heavily on the impact of mass incarceration on African Americans and suggests that the criminal justice system became the new form of oppression for black people in the post-Civil Rights Act era. What are the strengths and weaknesses of this focus on race? Cite specific examples from the film in your response.